Disney’s latest live-action adaptation of Snow White, released on 21 March 2025, arrives after much speculation, controversy, and last-minute changes. The film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, takes a bold new approach to the classic 1937 animation while addressing modern themes of independence, courage, and partnership.
Disney’s Snow White (2025): A new vision
The biggest change in this live-action remake is how it reinterprets the traditional roles of the Prince and the Seven Dwarfs. Originally, the film’s magical creatures were meant to replace the dwarfs, but following backlash, Disney revised the concept, turning these actors into a gang of bandits, led by the ‘Prince’ himself, now a rogue outlaw. This shift initially upset some viewers who lamented the lack of a traditional prince, but in the end, the romance still flourishes – albeit in a more organic and compelling way.
A romance based on growth, not just attraction
Unlike previous versions where Snow White and the Prince fall in love at first sight, this film builds their relationship through shared struggles and mutual respect. Snow White falls for a real person who saves her — and whom she also saves in return. This mutual heroism gives their love story more depth, making it feel more authentic than in earlier adaptations.
Snow White as a heroine: Feminism or just common sense?
Another shift that sparked debate was Snow White becoming the true heroine of her story. Some critics argued that this made the film overly feminist, but why shouldn’t Snow White take charge when she is left alone? The idea that she shouldn’t take an active role in her own survival seems outdated. The reality is that kids and families enjoyed watching a smart, capable Snow White who still retains her warmth, kindness, and belief in teamwork.
The Dwarfs and the “Whistle While You Work” message
Much discussion has surrounded the portrayal of the dwarfs, who are now CGI-animated characters. While some found the visual effects jarring, they are not bad overall. More importantly, the film shifts the perspective on household labour. Unlike in the 1937 version, Snow White does not take on all the chores. Instead, she encourages the group to work together while whistling — a subtle but meaningful update to the original film’s message. It reinforces a positive and cooperative approach, which feels more in line with contemporary values.
A controversial production that led to a great film
Leading up to its release, Snow White faced several controversies:
- Casting Rachel Zegler as Snow White – The casting of a Latina actress received mixed reactions, but Zegler delivers a charming and strong performance.
- The Seven Dwarfs Debate – Actor Peter Dinklage’s critique of the original depiction led Disney to revise its approach, ultimately opting for CGI dwarfs and reworking the supporting characters.
- Prince’s Role Transformation – Making the Prince a bandit leader initially upset traditionalists, but it created a more compelling romantic arc.
- Alleged On-Set Tensions – Reports suggested clashes between Zegler and Gadot over political views, but these claims did not overshadow the film’s quality.
Final Verdict: Entertainment wins in the end
Despite the drama surrounding the film’s production, Snow White (2025) delivers an enchanting, engaging, and well-paced adventure. The changes ultimately strengthen the story, offering a more realistic romance, a more proactive heroine, and a message of teamwork and resilience.
At the end of the day, this is a film for families and children, and they loved it. The young reporters from London Mums Magazine found it exciting and magical, which is what truly matters.
Disney took a risk by revising the film so close to its release, but in doing so, they crafted a highly entertaining, well-balanced adaptation that honours the past while embracing the present. Whether you agree with all the changes or not, there’s no denying that Snow White (2025) is a visually stunning, engaging fairy tale reimagining that is well worth the watch.
London Mums’ & Kids/Teens Club rating: 8/10
The trailer
The Evolution of Snow White in Film
The Snow White story has been a cinematic staple for over eight decades, inspiring numerous adaptations — from classic animation to horror, action, and even comedy. Each version reflects the era and creative vision of its time. As we await the public’s reaction to Disney’s new take on this legendary fairy tale, it’s fascinating to see how this timeless story continues to evolve.
1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) – Disney’s Animated Classic
The first full-length animated feature in history, Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs remains a landmark in cinema. Featuring groundbreaking animation, memorable songs like Heigh-Ho and Someday My Prince Will Come, and an iconic villain in the Evil Queen, this film set the gold standard for fairy tale adaptations.
2. Snow White (1955) – West German Live-Action Version
This lesser-known West German adaptation follows a more traditional Grimm Brothers’ version of the story. It was one of the first attempts to bring Snow White to life outside of animation.
3. Snow White and the Three Stooges (1961) – Comedy-Musical Twist
A unique take on the fairy tale, this film blends classic slapstick comedy with a musical interpretation of the Snow White story, featuring the famous Three Stooges as comic relief.
4. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1987) – Soviet Animated Version
This Soviet-produced version closely follows the Grimm Brothers’ original tale and has a darker, more mysterious atmosphere compared to Disney’s version.
5. Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1997) – A Dark Fantasy Horror
This made-for-TV adaptation starring Sigourney Weaver as the Evil Queen leans into the horror elements of the Grimm tale, offering a chilling, gothic take on the classic story.
6. Snow White: The Fairest of Them All (2001) – Hallmark TV Movie
This live-action adaptation, starring Kristin Kreuk as Snow White and Miranda Richardson as the Queen, gives a slightly surreal, dreamy spin on the story while staying faithful to its fairy-tale roots.
7. Sydney White (2007) – A College Comedy Inspired by the Tale
A modern teen comedy starring Amanda Bynes, this film loosely adapts Snow White into a college setting, where a young woman finds herself at odds with the campus “queen bee” while befriending a group of outcasts.
8. Mirror Mirror (2012) – A Whimsical, Colourful Take
I remember taking my then 6 year old son Diego to a special screening of Mirror, Mirror
Starring Lily Collins as Snow White and Julia Roberts as a delightfully campy Evil Queen, Mirror Mirror took a comedic and visually vibrant approach, reimagining the princess as a more proactive heroine.
9. Snow White and the Huntsman (2012) – A Dark Fantasy Epic
With Kristen Stewart as Snow White, Charlize Theron as the Evil Queen, and Chris Hemsworth as the Huntsman, this adaptation infused the fairy tale with Lord of the Rings-style fantasy action. It depicted Snow White as a warrior rather than a passive damsel.
10. The Huntsman: Winter’s War (2016) – A Spin-Off Prequel/Sequel
A follow-up to Snow White and the Huntsman, this film shifted focus away from Snow White and onto the Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth), introducing new characters played by Emily Blunt and Jessica Chastain.
11. Red Shoes and the Seven Dwarfs (2019) – A South Korean Animated Parody
This animated film reinterprets the Snow White tale with a message about self-acceptance, where Snow White is transformed into a different appearance by magical red shoes.
12. Snow White (2025) – Disney’s Live-Action Remake
The latest adaptation from Disney brings the studio’s beloved 1937 animation into the live-action era. This sheds a fresh perspective on the classic story.
